- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Blackburn to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€8
Average price
€8
Fastest journey
1 h 25 m
Average duration
1 h 25 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Blackburn to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Blackburn to Manchester will cost around €8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Blackburn for Manchester on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 34 km distance in an average of 1 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 25 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 1 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
NX5409:50 AM1h25Blackburn, Penny Street11:15 AMManchester, Coach Station€81One-way0 transfers
- NX5409:50 AM1h25Blackburn, Penny Street11:15 AMManchester, Coach Station€81One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Blackburn to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Blackburn to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €3, and a bus costs an average of €6.
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€7 Average price | €6 Average price Cheapest | €8 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 56m Average total duration 1h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 22m Average total duration Fastest 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Blackburn to Manchester is a train with an average price of €6.
This is compared to other travel options from Blackburn to Manchester:
A train is €0.83 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Blackburn to Manchester costing on average €7.
The fastest way to travel from Blackburn to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 52m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Blackburn and Manchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Blackburn to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around €7 compared to roughly €8 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €0.98. The journey takes 1h 26m versus 58m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by National Express.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Blackburn to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €7 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €7 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €7 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €7 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €7 |
Live departures
Blackburn to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Blackburn to Manchester buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX540 | 9:50 AM Blackburn, Penny Street | 1h25 | 11:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Blackburn to Manchester by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Aug 05
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Why should you book Blackburn to Manchester buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire offer buses services from Blackburn to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Blackburn to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire to find the best option for your trip from Blackburn to Manchester.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Blackburn to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Blackburn to Manchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Blackburn to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Blackburn to Manchester run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €6 but you can travel from only €3 by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:24, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 1h 25m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €3
Distance 21 miles (34 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price €6 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 25m |
First bus 12:24 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €3
Bus providers: National Express, Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire from Blackburn to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Blackburn to Manchester with National Express, Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire for as low as €3. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 25m
Cheapest Price
€6
National Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
€26
Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Manchester
Things to do in Manchester
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Art Gallery
Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
- Must visit
Albert Square
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Curry Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
Steak and Onion Pudding
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Fish and Chips
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Slattery
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Mana
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Mughli
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
FAQs: Bus from Blackburn to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Blackburn to Manchester by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Blackburn to Manchester can start from as little as €6 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Blackburn to Manchester is €7 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Blackburn to Manchester is 1h 25m to travel the 21 miles (34 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Blackburn to Manchester leaves at 12:24 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Blackburn to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Blackburn to Manchester with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Blackburn to Manchester, you can count on National Express, Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Blackburn and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Blackburn , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Blackburn, Penny Street, Darwen, Town Centre, Accrington, Bus Station . When arriving in Manchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Airport, New Moston, Broadway .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Blackburn, Penny Street, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Manchester from Blackburn is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Blackburn to Manchester is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Blackburn and Manchester including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Blackburn to Manchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Blackburn to Manchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Manchester are:
- Manchester Art Gallery, a public art museum housing an extensive collection of fine art and decorative pieces
- Science and Industry Museum, an interactive museum exploring Manchester's industrial heritage and scientific achievements
- Manchester Cathedral, a historic Gothic-style cathedral known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere
- The John Rylands Library, a neo-Gothic library with an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts
- Castlefield, a historic area with Roman ruins and picturesque canals, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The best things to do in Manchester include:
- Old Trafford, the iconic football stadium and home to Manchester United, offering tours and a museum dedicated to the club's history
- The Northern Quarter, a vibrant district known for its independent shops, cafes, and street art
- Visit the Manchester Opera House for a captivating performance
- Explore the vibrant nightlife at Deansgate Locks, a popular area with bars and clubs
- Enjoy a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Blackburn to Manchester depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Blackburn to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Blackburn to Manchester:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Blackburn to Manchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Blackburn to Manchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Blackburn to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Blackburn to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Blackburn to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Blackburn nor Manchester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Blackburn to Manchester among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Blackburn to Manchester
Most Blackburn to Manchester buses use the Blackburn, Penny Street to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Airport. Use this guide to compare Blackburn and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Blackburn
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Which Blackburn station do buses to Manchester leave from?
Buses from Blackburn to Manchester leave from Blackburn, Penny Street. The station is from Blackburn city centre at Blackburn, Blackburn BB1 5AX, UK.
Blackburn, Penny StreetBlackburn, Blackburn BB1 5AX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Blackburn, Penny Street from Blackburn city centre
TRUE
Blackburn, Penny Street bus station facilities and services
Blackburn, Penny Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Blackburn, Penny Street. ATMs are available at Blackburn, Penny Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Blackburn, Penny Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Blackburn, Penny Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Blackburn, Penny Street: Access ramps available for wheelchairs.
Which Manchester station do buses from Blackburn arrive at?
Buses from Blackburn to Manchester most often arrive at Manchester, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Manchester, Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Manchester arrival station.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · €2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · €5 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · €1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · €2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · €2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · €4 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · €4 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Most popular bus connections from Blackburn
More options for your journey from Blackburn to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Blackburn
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